The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a significant health advisory regarding travel to Cape Verde, following an alarming spike in reported cases of stomach infections among British tourists. Since the beginning of October, health officials have documented 118 instances of shigella and 43 cases of salmonella linked to visits to this popular West African destination. Tragically, four British nationals have died in recent months after contracting these infections during their holidays.
Rising Infection Rates Prompt Travel Caution
The warning comes just as the February half-term holiday approaches, a period when many Britons are expected to flock to the archipelago. Shigella and salmonella are bacterial infections that primarily affect the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. While many individuals recover without complications, vulnerable populations—including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems—are at risk of severe illness and potential life-threatening outcomes.
Infections are typically transmitted via contaminated faeces, either through direct person-to-person contact or indirectly via contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Given these transmission routes, it is crucial for travellers to exercise caution and adhere to recommended health guidelines.
Essential Precautions for Travellers
To mitigate the risk of gastrointestinal infections, the UKHSA has outlined several essential precautions for those planning to travel to Cape Verde:
– Consume only freshly prepared and thoroughly cooked meals served hot.
– Drink bottled or boiled water; avoid ice in beverages.
– Use bottled or boiled water for brushing teeth.
– Only eat fruits that you have peeled yourself.
– Steer clear of salads that may not have been washed in clean water.
Dr Gauri Godbole, the UKHSA’s deputy director for gastrointestinal infections and food safety, emphasised the importance of these precautions. “Taking a few simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea and food poisoning,” she stated. Furthermore, she highlighted the critical role of hand hygiene, advising travellers to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol gel, especially after using the toilet, changing nappies, and before eating or preparing food.
Areas Most Affected
The majority of reported shigella cases have been linked to the Santa Maria and Boa Vista regions of Cape Verde, with Santa Maria being a well-known resort town on Sal Island and Boa Vista being the archipelago’s easternmost island. In February, temperatures in this region typically hover around a pleasant 25°C, making it an attractive winter getaway. However, health officials warn that the conditions may create an environment conducive to the spread of these infections, particularly in busy hospitality settings.
Dr Damien Tully, an associate professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, noted that outbreaks of shigella are not uncommon, especially in crowded dining situations like buffets, which can serve as breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and viruses.
Legal Action Following Tragic Deaths
The tragic deaths of four British tourists—Mark Ashley, 55, from Bedfordshire; Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham; Karen Pooley, 64, from Gloucestershire; and a 56-year-old man from Watford—have spurred families to take legal action against the travel company Tui. These individuals are among six Britons who lost their lives after holidays in Cape Verde since January 2023. Reports indicate that both Ashley’s and Walsh’s families expressed concerns regarding the hygiene standards at their respective resorts.
Tui has acknowledged the ongoing investigations into the claims but has refrained from providing further comments due to the active legal proceedings. Adding to the complexity, Cape Verde’s infrastructure was severely impacted by Hurricane Erin last August, which damaged water and sanitation facilities, increasing the risk of disease spread via contaminated water sources.
Why it Matters
The health advisory from the UKHSA serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of travel safety, particularly in regions experiencing outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. As more British tourists prepare for their trips to Cape Verde, awareness and adherence to health guidelines are essential to prevent further infections and protect vulnerable individuals. The tragic deaths highlight the potentially severe consequences of neglecting proper food and water safety practices while abroad, making it imperative for travellers to remain vigilant and informed.
